No abstract

Background: Telemedicine enables providers to connect with patients and consultants remotely in a cost-effective, convenient manner. Telemedicine in various forms-from store-and-forward technology to real-time videoconferencing-has demonstrated good outcomes in specialties including neurosurgery, general neurology, stroke, and epilepsy. Aim: To demonstrate the feasibility of telemedicine in an outpatient university-based neurology clinic, and assess patient and provider satisfaction with telemedicine. Methods: Forty neurologically stable adult patients were recruited. We excluded patients who were non-English speaking, had intellectual disability, lacked caregiver availability, or had unstable neurological conditions. After each telemedicine visit a patient standardized satisfaction survey was completed, comprising 11 questions assessing patient willingness to participate, technical issues, and satisfaction with the clinic experience and medical provider. A provider satisfaction survey was obtained at the end of the study. Results: Forty of fifty patients meeting criteria consented to a telemedicine visit in lieu of a routine visit, and 15 of these responded to survey. All felt confident when meeting with their provider met their needs. Ninety percent of participants agreed that the technical process of joining the on-line session was easy. All patients agreed that they were satisfied with their telemedicine session and would choose telemedicine over face-to-face visits in the future. Cost analysis demonstrated a UCLA healthcare system saving of $28.00 for each telemedicine replacing an in-person clinic visit. Patients saved the cost of auto fuel, missed work, and parking when using the telemedicine option. Conclusions: Telemedicine in neurology patients is feasible and satisfies patients and providers.